The Recession Has Hit Master P and BBTV

The lagging economy has placed a halt on a lot of business ventures that were supposed to have taken place in the past year. It should be no surprise that black-owned businesses would also be struggling, albums by Jadakiss, Ja Rule, 50- Cent, and Jay-Z have been pushed back because the labels (Universal) are not sure that they will get a full return on their investment. Back in August of 2008, former gangsta rapper, Master P, decided to start a television network to target the African-American audience. This was only months after TBT’s start back in June.  If you recall, P announced that the network will launch in 2009. However, now, the website is announcing 2010. This adds, BBTV to the long list of businesses that have been hampered by the recession. The schedule is set to feature many reruns, and original sitcoms like “Uncle Willy’s Family.” The channel will also have a “Teen Summit”-like program, “Teens Real Talk.” BBTV is not the first black-owned channel to re-structure since the recession began. Texas-based Black Broadcasting Network was set to air in 2008, but was pushed back to an indefinite date in 2009. However, they have signed a contract with the Premier Basketball League to air their games. When BBTV launches, be sure that their budget will be extremely tight as many businesses are these days. Still, remember True Black Television is here. (http://www.mogulus.com/trueblacktv)